Ohio Program for Campus Safety and Mental Health explores the evolving landscape of behavioral health

The Ohio Program for Campus Safety and Mental Health (OPCSMH) hosted its 7th Biennial Conference, The Evolving Landscape of Campus Behavioral Health, on May 15, 2025, in Dublin, Ohio.

The morning keynote address was delivered by Laura Stack, co-founder of Johnny’s Ambassadors. Stack provided a compelling and educational presentation on the risks associated with cannabis use among young adults, sharing the deeply moving story of her son, Johnny, who tragically died by suicide following a struggle with cannabis-induced psychosis. Her presentation was followed by a panel discussion featuring subject matter experts—including Dr. Erik Messamore of the NEOMED Department of Psychiatry—who offered valuable insights into the complex relationship between cannabis use and mental health in the college student population.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted from prevention to postvention with a keynote presentation by Dr. Kurt Michael, senior clinical director of the JED Foundation. Dr. Michael outlined a strategic framework for postvention efforts in collegiate settings, emphasizing the importance of coordinated, compassionate responses following a campus suicide.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the inaugural Outstanding Campus-Community Collaborative Grantee Award to Dr. Ken Browner of Lakeland Community College. Dr. Browner was recognized for his decade-long work developing the Reach Out mobile application, which connects students and the broader campus-community to vital mental health resources and support services.

The OPCSMH extends sincere thanks to all presenters, exhibitors, the OPCSMH Advisory Committee and the Collegiate Mental Health Advisory Board of Ohio for their invaluable contributions to the conference.

We look forward to continued collaboration with our statewide campus-community partners at the 3rd Campus Safety and Suicide Prevention Symposium in October 2025. Stay tuned for additional details!